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What Are August’s Hottest Shopping Deals?
Everything summery is on sale
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As the hottest-ever summer continues, the idea of indoor, air-conditioned shopping — whether in stores or online from home — may seem pretty appealing this month.
The unofficial end of summer means that you’ll find blowout prices on a range of seasonal and outdoor products as well as back-to-school supplies. One way to boost your savings: Take advantage of sales tax holidays in many states. The rules vary by state, and typically only apply to certain categories like clothing or school supplies, but you can check out the details in your state here.
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Two food-related retail holidays to keep in mind for promotions at the supermarket: Aug. 4 is National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day, and Aug. 24 is National Waffle Day. Last year, breakfast restaurants Denny’s and Waffle House offered deals to diners to celebrate the latter.
While Labor Day weekend falls squarely in September this year, keep an eye out for early holiday sales at the end of August. Home Depot, for example, will launch its Labor Day sales event Aug. 24, while Etsy’s Labor Day sales will start Aug. 30. Here’s a look at some of the best things to buy in August, according to shopping experts, including where to shop and how much you could potentially save.
Patio furniture
As the days of summer entertaining wind down, retailers will start slashing prices on patio furniture. Expect to see deals on full sets of furniture as well as individual pieces as retailers work to clear these products from their floors to make room for fall and winter items. You’ll find deals on patio accessories as well, such as outdoor rugs and umbrellas.
“You could wait until September for a deeper discount on patio furniture,” says Andrea Woroch, a money consultant. “But August would give you a better selection before things clear out.”
Where to look for deals: Lowe’s, Wayfair, Home Depot
Potential savings: 60 to 75 percent off
Outdoor grills, smokers and grill accessories
If your current barbecue has grilled its last burger, or you need a barbecue to finish off your outdoor living space, August is a great time to find deals as many retailers recognize Labor Day as the last big grilling holiday of the year. While the biggest discounts may be on the largest grills, it’s still smart to purchase the size that best fits in your space and for the number of people for whom you’re frequently cooking.
Where to look for deals: Amazon, Target, Walmart
Potential savings: Up to 60 percent off
Lawn mowers and gardening supplies
Whether you’re looking for a push lawn mower or one that you can ride on, you’ll find markdowns on mowers and other gardening supplies like hoses and sprinklers this month. Retailers are eager to move them out so they can display fall-focused yard products like rakes and leaf blowers.
Where to look for deals: Home Depot, John Deere, Sam’s Club
Potential savings: About 40 percent off
Beach and pool items
There may be at least another month of beach days ahead of us, but as far as retailers are concerned, the swim season is over. That means you’ll find deep discounts on everything from pool noodles and floats to beach towels and bathing suits.
“If you have a pool, the end of the season is also a time to stock up on supplies like pool chemicals or a pool vacuum,” says Kristin McGrath, a savings expert with RetailMeNot.
Where to look for deals: TJMaxx, HomeGoods, Swimoutlet.com
Potential savings: 30 to 60 percent off
Office supplies
Back-to-school shopping is in full swing this month, and it’s a great time to stock up on paper supplies, desk accessories and laptops. You’ll find the best deals on store-brand items.
“Even if you don’t have kids, back-to-school shopping is a great time to shop,” McGrath says.
Where to look for deals: CVS, Staples, supermarkets
Potential savings: Up to 75 percent off
Summer sporting goods
Demand for items like camping supplies, fishing equipment and lawn games like cornhole and horseshoes starts declining this time of year, so retailers often cut prices to move out unsold inventory. Even if you won’t have a chance to use a product before the weather turns, it’s a great time to purchase it at a discount for use next year.
Wear to look for deals: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops
Potential savings: 15 to 20 percent off
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